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News– The Union government recently introduced The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha. It aims to strengthen India’s borders and streamline immigration and foreigner-related laws.
About Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
- The Bill repeals and replaces the Immigration (Carriers’ Liability) Act, 2000, and three pre-independence laws, the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939, and the Foreigners Act, 1936.
Key Provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
1. National Security Measures
- The bill prioritizes national security and sovereignty, barring entry or residence for any foreigner posing a threat to India’s integrity.
- Immigration officers will have the authority to arrest suspects without a warrant if they are believed to be violating immigration laws.
- Additionally, all foreigners must register upon arrival, and their movements, name changes, and access to restricted areas may be monitored.
2. Stricter Entry and Stay Regulations
- All foreigners must have a valid passport and visa to enter or leave India.
- Institutions like educational establishments, hospitals, and nursing homes must report foreign nationals under their care to immigration authorities.
- Carriers (airlines, transport operators) will be responsible for ensuring passengers have valid documents. If a foreigner is denied entry, the carrier must remove them immediately or face fines and possible seizure of their transport.
3. Severe Penalties for Violations
- Entering without valid documents: Up to 5 years in prison and a Rs.5 lakh fine.
- Using forged documents: 2 to 7 years in jail, with fines ranging from Rs.1 lakh to Rs.10 lakh.
- Overstaying or violating visa conditions: Up to 3 years imprisonment and a Rs.3 lakh fine.
- Transporting foreigners without valid papers: Rs.5 lakh fine and potential seizure of the vehicle.
Note– Foreigners holding dual citizenship will be recognized as citizens of the country whose passport they used to enter India.
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